The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has granted administrative bail to popular social media commentator, Martins Innocent Otse, widely known as VeryDarkMan, following his arrest last Friday, May 2, 2025.
Otse, known for his vocal takes on social and political issues, was taken into custody by EFCC operatives after allegedly ignoring multiple invitations regarding a series of financial crime allegations leveled against him. His arrest sparked widespread outrage among Nigerians, many of whom demanded clarity and transparency from the anti-graft agency.
Breaking its silence on the matter, the EFCC on Tuesday issued a statement confirming the arrest and explaining the circumstances surrounding it. According to the commission, Otse was invited several times in relation to “grave allegations of financial malfeasance,” but failed to respond, prompting his detention.
The agency emphasized that the arrest was not due to Otse’s recent public criticisms of the commission, although it noted such attacks as “ungarded” and “condemnable.”
“The EFCC… invited Martins Vincent Otse owing to a series of petitions bordering on sundry issues of alleged financial crimes… He refused to show up in spite of several invitations,” the statement read.
The commission added that it had secured a lawful remand order and would release Otse once all bail conditions are met. It also urged the public to allow it carry out its duties without undue speculation or pressure.
“As soon as investigations are concluded, charges will be filed,” the EFCC stated.
